Epilepsy can be caused by different conditions that affect a person’s brain. Causes of epilepsy in patients of different ages tend to vary.

1. In newborns, epilepsy may be caused by injury from birth.
2. In children, epilepsy may be caused by high fever or encephalitis or meningitis.
3. In teenagers and middle-aged adults, epilepsy may be genetic or caused by trauma, parasites in the brain or abnormalities of the blood vessels.
4. In the elderly, epilepsy may be caused by stroke or brain tumor.

In a number of patients, the cause of epilepsy is unknown, even after undergoing several specialized tests.
 
 

When a patient experiencing seizures comes to see a doctor, the doctor will obtain a thorough medical history and carry out a physical examination to confirm the occurrence of seizures and look for their cause. The doctor may also order blood tests, electroencephalography (EEG) and in some cases, a computed tomography (CT) scan. Approximately 20 to 40 percent of patients with epilepsy have normal electroencephalography (EEGs) and even more patients may not show any abnormalities with the computed tomography (CT) scan. A specialist will determine the appropriate tests for each patient.
 

1. Treating the cause, such as using medication for parasites and surgery for tumors or abnormal blood vessels.
2. Treating the seizures with medication; the doctor will determine the dosage and duration of the medication, and some patients may have to take medications all their lives.

1. You should take your antiepileptic drugs continuously for three to five years.
2. Avoid situations or actions that can raise your chances of having a seizure, such as lack of sleep, alcohol consumption, strenuous activity, or missing a dose of medication.
3. Avoid dangerous activities, such as driving, swimming, working with heavy machinery, climbing at high altitudes, etc.
4. You can live your life normally. Exercise regularly, but do not overdo it, and maintain good physical and mental health.
5. See your doctor regularly as scheduled to monitor your symptoms and any side effects of the medication.

Epilepsy do not damage the brain, but can affect memory temporarily. Please remember that epilepsy can be managed and even prevented with medication and by following the doctor’s recommendations carefully.